A Historic Lighthouse And Secluded Beaches Are Hiding On The Trails Of Beavertail State Park In Rhode Island

All it takes is one trip to Beavertail State Park to know there's something special about it. Our tiny state has 15 state parks and seven state beaches, but this little piece of paradise really stands out. People come from all over New England (and the East Coast) to spend time here and uncover some of its hidden gems, and we're lucky to have it in our backyard.

Beavertail State Park is located in Jamestown, spanning 153 acres at the southern end of Conanicut Island.

It became a designated state park in 1980, but its history goes back a few centuries.

The park is well-known for having some of the most beautiful vistas along the New England coastline.

Rhode Islanders love to come walk, fish, and check out the historic sites.

There are several nature paths here as well as one main loop for hikers.

The Beavertail Trail is a 2.3 mile loop trail that takes you to many of the park's hidden gems.

Beavertail State Park has a small aquarium, a museum, and some small hidden beaches...

... but its main attraction is the historic Beavertail Lighthouse.

This active lighthouse dates all the way back to 1856.

The Beavertail Lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks in Rhode Island.

And with scenery like this, it isn't very surprising.

During World War II, the park area was part of Fort Burnside, one of several forts created to protect Narragansett Bay.

You'll find plenty of remnants of that time period, as well as lots of other lighthouse-related artifacts at the Light House Museum.

But more than anything else, Beavertail State Park is known for its unbelievable ocean views.

If you could use a few moments of peace, come for a walk and a picnic lunch and see for yourself.

Have you been to Beavertail State Park yet this season?